All posts tagged "gps"

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

"GPS Tuner, developers of Outdoor Navigation, has released Turn by Turn Navigation for Windows Phone 7. Focusing on simplicity, Turn by Turn allows you to tap on a map point or search for an address, click on a pushpin and press the GO button to begin your journey."

GPS Tuner is offering their navigation app for just $4.99 in the Marketplace. There is also a free trial (limited travel distance) that you can try out as well. Certainly can't hurt to try it! Hit the Read link for a quick video demo.

Monday, February 14, 2011

"TA Maps is a mapping solution that uses sources like Google Maps and OpenStreetMap and gives better coverage in many parts of the world than Bing Maps."

If you have heard in the past about the TA Maps app, which was pitched as Google Maps for Windows Phone 7, then this development may be quite exciting for you. To use the original version you would have needed a jailbroken phone, and I'm sure none of our readers would have had one (ahem). This new version is available in the Marketplace. It looks like it is very full featured, including:

Scrollable/zoomable maps

Street/satellite views

GPS location tracking

Search

Favorite locations

Driving mode (keeps map centered on GPS location)

GPS sensitivity settings

Smoothly restores your last map view and pushpins

If you have some experience with this app, please let us know in the comments how you think it compares with Bing Maps.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

"The Windows Phone GPS Emulator (a small WPF application) and one WP7 DLL enable you to debug your application on the Windows Phone emulator or a real device without leaving the comfort of your home or office. Once you've completed your testing and debugging, you only need to change a single line of code to switch to the device back to real GPS."

There certainly has been an increase in the number of location-aware apps available on smartphone platforms of late. While Windows Phone has not missed the party, with the release of the Windows Phone GPS Emulator there will soon be more such apps representing the platform at it. Over on the Windows Phone Developer Blog, Yochay has posted an article explaining the background on the app and some basic instructions on how to make use of it. This could save developers much time and effort. So developers, let's see what you can do!

Friday, January 28, 2011

"Location-based services are going to have a hard time overcoming privacy fears and proving their worth."

The survey about privacy and sharing with location-based services was done by Microsoft, and it does reveal some interesting tidbits. Over 80% of those polled have never used a location-based service to tell others where they are, or to find the location of their friends, family etc. And of the roughly 20% that had used it, the most popular service was Google Latitude or Places at 52%, followed close behind by Facebook Places at 50%. Foursquare was only used by 15% of those users in the United States, and less in the other countries polled (Japan, Canada, UK and Germany). I am not too surprised that the "have-used" crowd was smaller than the "have-not" used crowd, but I didn't think the disparity would be that large between them. And for those that use those services, I would have thought that Foursquare, for all it's hype, would have had a greater percentage of users. I wonder just how many that said they didn't actually did but didn't know it. I guess the bigger point they are trying to make here is that people are just not comfortable putting that information out there yet. Personally I don't have too big a problem using Facebook Places every now and then, since I've vetted those that are my friends there, but there aren't too many on a regular basis that I do use other than that. How about you, any qualms about using these services and letting the 'Net know where you are?

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Who says there aren't any useful navigation applications for WP7? A little while ago, I wrote up a review of a running/walking training assistant called Marathon, by JMD Software which I found very useful on my treks around the local parks with my wife. Well, it seems JMD have jumped on the Silverlight development bandwagon and produced a version for Windows Phone 7. It's available from the Windows Phone Marketplace for $1.09USD which is pretty reasonable and the statistics presentation and interface to the Internet have been improved. It's neat to see software from the WM6.5 world evolve along with the O/S. Read more...

Thursday, February 4, 2010

"Verizon Wireless, provider of the nation's largest and most reliable 3G network, today announced the launch of VZ Navigator® 5.0, the newest version of its award-winning map, navigation and local search service, which helps users find their way around town. Powered by TeleCommunication Systems, Verizon Wireless' VZ Navigator is a GPS-enabled service that transforms a wireless smartphone or handset into an all-in-one powerful navigation and communication device, enabling customers to find useful information and discover new places and destinations."

$9.99 a month (or $2.99 a day) will give you access to, well, something Google is giving away for free. But those who don't have an android phone to switch into for navigation may appreciate big V's offering. It runs on Win Mo (hence this post) and also on blackberry. The attractive part may be the traffic updates that are provided by the network in response to what actual users are experiencing. So heavy commuters who are perpetually late (But have enough time to power up a GPS for a route they know by heart) may be interested.

Monday, November 23, 2009

"As you are probably already aware, GPSed versions for iPhone and Blackberry are remarkable by many useful and nice features which we usually describe in our blog. We are glad to bring you some new features recently added to GPSed version for Windows Mobile phones (Pocket PC and Smartphones)."

If you're looking for something a bit more powerful than other GPS packages, GPSed looks like it would fit the bill. The new version integrates some nice features into the package, so if interested, now is a great time to check it out.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Product Category: GPS-assisted software

Where to Buy: From the developer -- download available here; or from the Windows Marketplace

Price: $3.99USD

System Requirements: Marathon requires a Windows Mobile 5.0+ Professional device with a GPS receiver and a screen resolution of at least 240x240 pixels.

Specifications: Requires approximately 400K of storage memory. Cannot be installed to Storage Card.

Pros:

Very easy to install, configure and use;

Main user interface is very intuitive, but there are lots of settings for individual customization.

Cons:

Not possible to pause timings if you stop for a drink or chat;

Some of the terminology used is confusing (eg. Sprint vs Track) A Help file or glossary would be useful.

Summary: Training up for that next marathon or triathalon? Or maybe just looking for something to provide an extra nudge for your personal 'Biggest Loser' exercise program? Marathon, a GPS-enabled software package from JMD Software may be just the right coach. It provides a simple, easy way to track your progress whether you're walking, running, biking or even rallying by car! Read more...

Sunday, October 4, 2009

"Waze Inc. has officially launched Waze, a free turn-by-turn GPS application, for Windows Mobile. Waze is a social network for motorists to not only provide driving directions but also offer information collected from the users to identify traffic congestion, road hazards and other conditions that affect travel."

If your WinMo phone has a GPS chip and you are looking for a free turn-by-turn program, this could be just the ticket. Just be aware that it supports a verylimited number of phones.

TouchFlo 3D interface is very smooth, responsive and finger-friendly -- little need to use the stylus for most functions;

GPS Receiver is Phenomenal!

Cons:

Soft reset button is located inside the unit so you have to take the back cover off if things get 'stuck';

Really wish HTC would add a Tasks tab to TouchFlo.

Summary: Right from the top let me say I LOVE the Touch Diamond 2. It has a very classy look; the size and weight are very comfortable in the hand' and the WVGA screen is clear, vibrant and huge! HTC's TouchFlo interface is quicker and smoother in this version, with new features and greater depth into the Windows Mobile GUI. As a whole, everything about this phone just works exactly as you'd expect it to. Easy, Expected and Reliable is exactly what I'm looking for in a personal digital assistant and the Touch Diamond 2 has it all. I really hated to have to return this at the end of the review period. Read more...

Monday, July 20, 2009

"New software for the Samsung Omnia that will give customers an additional option for navigation is now available. The open GPS feature allows customers to purchase or use free applications by adding them to the device. Customers can still use VZ Navigator with turn by turn directions that talk to you while driving and takes you to millions of locations throughout the U. S. and just recently parts of Europe."

Every so often Verizon tries to not appear so evil. Omnia owners on Big V, take advantage of this glimpse of civility!

Friday, July 10, 2009

"You don't know where you parked your car anymore? Have you ever wondered how far your are away from home and in what direction it is? GpsSpot from Cradle Software uses the build in or attached GPS device to show in what direction and how far a previously saved spot is."

A few months back I was looking for a GPS gadget that did exactly what this software does - guide you back to a specific GPS location that you've tagged. This is exactly what I needed, and at an asking price of 2.90 Euros, it's cheap enough that even if you only use it a few times a year, it would be worth it. Unfortunately it's for Windows Mobile Professional devices only, not Windows Mobile Standard devices.

Pros:

Trackball has a good, responsive feel to it, but software is still not fully integrated into its existence;

GPS is very responsive and works well with the Smart Navigator software;

Standard 2.5mm headphone jack, which also doubles as TVOut;

Good all around package for traveling business people.

Cons:

Lock/power button doesn't always turn on the screen;

Small stylus;

WiFi has difficulty with secured networks;

2 megapixel, fixed-focus camera is not up to current expectations.

Summary:

Following along from our review of the 117 last month, we now present Pharos' latest addition to the Traveler series -- the 127. Similar to the 117, but designed for those who prefer the front-facing embedded keyboard format, the Traveler 127 is a full 3.5G capable travelling companion for the mobile business executive. It's not an easy market to make your mark in, as it's crowded and competitive. How does the 127 fare against the HPs, HTCs and Blackberries? Let's take a look...

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

"Most dual-SIM devices top out at EDGE, but the DX900 takes it to the next level with triband HSDPA on top of quadband EDGE; you've also got a 2.8-inch VGA display, WiFi, 3 megapixel AF camera, and GPS, so if you're a two-line kind of individual, look for this one now around Europe and Asia. Next, the X960 ups the ante with HSUPA and 7.2Mbps maximum on the downlink, a revised 3D user interface, and a 3.2 megapixel cam -- it too should be populating Europe and Asia as we speak."

If you remember my last post on Acer's 8-model blitz, neither of these models are likely to be seen in the US until next year. While these aren't exactly earth-shaking entries in the Windows Mobile sweepstakes, both are solid devices that should fit someone's budget and needs. I do wonder though if any US carrier would be willing to tolerate a dual-SIM device like the DX900. We'll (hopefully) have live pictures of the DX900 for you sometime this week - stay tuned.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

"Why is Live Search for mobile so Loco 4 Local? Because we're crazy about getting you what you need to know now, no matter where you are. Whether you're craving crab cakes or mulling a matinee, Live Search for mobile makes finding practically anything in the area fast and easy."

I really like it when companies can have a sense of humour about what they're doing, so this was right up my alley: the Windows LIve Search for Mobile team has created this Loco4Local site that has some hilarious videos that spoof some of the cheesy used car ads you might see on late night local TV. Great stuff!

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

"Overall, the Touch HD is one of the best device in its class (if not the best) and sets a benchmark for future devices. The high-resolution screen, increased sensitivity touch screen, fluid Touch Flo 3D and various software enhancements make the user experience extremely enjoyable. Being a media centric device, the touch HD is an absolute pleasure to use for browsing the web, watching videos on youtube, movie from your personal collection, browsing photos or just listening to music (thanks to the 3.5mm jack)."

What is so hard with adding tri-band HSDPA to this otherwise drool-worthy device? And what are the chances of the Touch HD getting WM6.5? Apart from that, there's a lot to like - 5MP camera, 3.8" WVGA screen, GPS, 528MHz Processor, 3.5mm headset socket, and a fairly large battery. I don't like the fact that the changing the MicroSD card (and soft-resetting!) requires taking off the battery cover. As for the rest - this is a fairly solid contender.

Pros:

Beautiful, crisp, clear VGA screen;

Great battery life;

Standard 2.5mm headphone jack, which also doubles as TVOut.

Cons:

Stylus is too small to be usable;

Trackball needs to be more precise/consistent in action;

SD card access is difficult and cover could break with use;

2 megapixel, fixed focus camera is not up to current expectations.

Summary:

The Traveler series is a new lineup of GPS-enabled 3.5G smartphones from Pharos, makers of the Ostia navigation software. Pharos has very kindly provided us with units to review the entire new lineup, so you'll be seeing the rest of the family over the next few months. Based on the numbering, you might think of the Traveler 117 as the entry unit to the series, but it includes an impressive array of features and a very sleek, professional design. What surprised me the most was the VGA screen and the substitution of a trackball for the 5-way navigation D-Pad!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

"Mio made it known late last year that the company was cooking up a mobile handset and it appears as though the Taiwanese GPS company's entrance into the mobile game will indeed be a sexy one."

Mio are better known for their DigiWalker series of GPS-equipped handhelds and this is, AFAIK, their first foray into making a phone. It's really not bad for a first effort, with the ubiquitous Qualcomm MSM7201A 528MHz processor, quadband GSM, tri-band HSPA, GPS (of course!), and 3MP camera. The device has a 3.5" QWVGA screen, which is passably large enough for GPS usage, and a slot that accepts micro-SDHC cards for all your maps. No word yet on pricing or availability.

Sunday, March 1, 2009

"Designed for business-savvy professionals who appreciate a screen as big as their ambitions, the P835 is equipped with a large 3.5" touchscreen that runs at WVGA resolution-offering five times the number of pixels of most phones and delivering the best document, photo, movie and website viewing experience possible. Apart from being able to display more of a webpage onscreen, the P835 boasts features that greatly enrich users' online experience, including blazing fast HSUPA 7.2Mbps download speeds, a responsive trackball that makes scrolling effortless and Opera Mobile, a user-friendly and full-featured Web browser."

Apart from the big screen and Asus' updated Glide interface, the P835 boasts a 528MHz Qualcomm processor, 288MB RAM, 4GB internal storage, Micro-SD slot, AGPS, and 5MP AF camera. The P835 also offers the capability to act as a WiFi AP for up to ten devices, which is a real nice capability to have. I'm a bit dubious about the trackball - the placement might make it a little awkward to use with one hand - and the battery is a little small for a premium device. Everything else makes this a pretty fine top-of-the-range contender for ASUS. Read the rest of the press release for more details. Read more...

Thursday, February 12, 2009

"The first of Acer's upcoming smartphones, tipped for launch at their MWC announcement next week, has leaked, and it's certainly an interesting looking device. The Acer DX650 is a dual-sided Windows Mobile smartphone, with a traditional 2.8-inch QVGA touchscreen on one side, and a full numeric keypad and 1.27-inch 128 x 96 monochrome OLED display on the reverse."

That's a fascinating design, though I really wonder how usable this is - the best of both worlds, or the worse of each? At least you can't accuse Acer of not trying to innovate. Other specs include GPS, micro-SD slot and a camera, though from the looks of it, this will be a low-resolution one for video-calling only. Acer will also be introducing another smartphone next week, in a more traditional design. The X960 features a 533MHz Samsung processor, 128MB RAM, 256 MB ROM, GPS and a slot for a Micro-SD card. The phone will also offer a 2.8" VGA screen, along with HSPA and a 3.2MP camera.